Introducing Yeilim Cheong, Expert in Korean Politics and Democratic Transitions
The Truman School of Public Affairs is excited to announce the hiring of Yeilim Cheong, an accomplished scholar and educator, to its faculty as the Korea Foundation Endowed Assistant Professor for the fall of 2025. Yeilim is currently completing her doctoral degree in Political Science at the University of California – San Diego, where she also serves as an associate instructor for a course on Korean Politics. With academic foundations that include master’s and bachelor’s degrees in political science and international relations from Korea University in Seoul, Yeilim brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to her new role.
Her scholarly contributions include multiple publications in peer-reviewed journals. Her dissertation, titled Beyond the Struggle for Democratic Transition: The Rise and Fall of Opposition Successor Parties, examines pivotal dynamics in democratization. Her research focuses on state repression, democratic transitions, and the prospects for stability in new democracies—topics critical to understanding today’s shifting political landscape.
Dr. Laron Williams, the Frederick A. Middlebush Chair of Political Science at the University of Missouri, praised Ms. Cheong’s appointment. “Her research in state repression and democratic transitions answers key questions of the prospects for long-term stability in new democracies. She will complement the Truman School’s comparative professors’ existing strengths in party politics, political behavior, and political economy. Her desire to mentor graduate students and offer collaborative opportunities will put our students in a strong position in the academic job market and will strengthen the PhD program overall,” said Dr. Williams.
Ms. Cheong expressed her enthusiasm for joining the Truman School, highlighting its commitment to bridging academic research with public policy and addressing pressing global challenges such as civil and international conflict, democratic erosion, and climate change. She also emphasized the unique opportunities this position provides to enhance Missouri’s connections to Korea and foster interdisciplinary dialogue.
“I am inspired by the Truman School’s dedication to producing impactful research and its emphasis on preparing students to tackle complex global issues,” Ms. Cheong said. “This role allows me to contribute to these efforts while building academic and cultural bridges between Korea and Missouri.”
With her exceptional background, research focus, and dedication to mentorship, Yeilim is poised to make a lasting impact at the Truman School of Public Affairs. Faculty, students, and the broader academic community can look forward to her contributions as she advances the school’s mission of excellence in research, teaching, and public engagement.
[LK1]The main point we want to make is that we have a new hire and many people will just read only the headline so I would say Truman School Welcomes New Faculty in Korean Politics and Democratic Transitions.